Giancarlo Stanton is getting ready for an uncommon outfield role.

Stanton Set to Return to Outfield After Long Absence

On the occasion of Old People’s Day, Giancarlo Stanton is poised to return to the outfield for the Yankees, as confirmed by manager Aaron Boone. This marks his first appearance in the outfield since September 14, 2023.

While Aaron Judge can fill the designated hitter role, he’s still recovering from flexor tension, which limits his field capabilities. With left-handed pitcher Framber Valdez expected for the Astros, the Yankees are willing to take a calculated risk.

Stanton has faced significant challenges over the past two years, having played in the outfield infrequently due to injuries. Since 2019, he’s only completed more than 114 games in a season once, grappling with issues ranging from knee sprains to calf strains. He could only manage limited play last season due to a left hamstring strain. This year, an elbow tendonitis caused him to miss action until mid-June, raising concerns about his throwing capacity.

“I can’t recall Giancarlo ever complaining,” noted outfield and third-base coach Luis Rojas.

Last year saw Stanton return from an injury late in the season, and there’s hope the Yankees can lean on his performance again. Boone expressed awareness of the risks involved, stating before the game against the Astros, “We don’t place him in scenarios where we see significant risk.”

“Physically, he’s in a good place to perform, albeit in a limited capacity,” Boone added.

Stanton has been actively working on fielding drills in the outfield, especially this past week, though he’s not running at full speed. Every movement is carefully calculated to keep him healthy as he adjusts to playing before games.

Rojas mentioned, “He appears to be improving gradually. He’s a veteran, and you have to trust what he feels.”

It seems that Stanton is feeling well enough to attempt defense, despite being out of the starting lineup for several games recently. With nine home runs in his last 21 games and an OPS of 1.039, he’s been a critical offensive player.

Rojas commented on Stanton’s mindset, saying he doesn’t want to bear the weight of responsibility alone; he just wants to contribute to the team’s success and is eager to showcase his defensive skills.

This decision isn’t intended to be permanent; Boone has clarified that the team aims to maintain flexibility, allowing Stanton to play in the outfield occasionally.

The duration of Judge’s absence in the outfield remains uncertain. Before the game, he shared a light throwing session with Stanton. Boone mentioned that Judge will attempt further distance throws, monitoring how he feels as he gradually increases his workload.